The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will officially come under the ambit of the newly unveiled National Sports Governance Bill, 2025, as confirmed by the Sports Ministry on July 22.
The legislation marks a significant shift in cricket administration by classifying BCCI as a National Sports Federation (NSF), thereby bringing it under key government guidelines and athlete-first policies.
This inclusion is historic, as BCCI — India’s most influential sports body — previously operated outside the NSF framework and did not rely on public funding. The push for reform aligns with India’s preparations for global sporting events, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Under the bill, all NSFs, including BCCI, must include athletes of outstanding merit in executive committees and establish dedicated Athletes’ Committees. The bill also mandates at least four women in every sports body’s top decision-making board, in an effort to bolster gender representation.
Another groundbreaking provision is the establishment of a National Sports Tribunal and a newly proposed National Sports Board (NSB). These entities will hold powers to oversee governance, resolve disputes swiftly, and even suspend federations based on misconduct or election flaws.
BCCI’s recognition under the bill also places it directly under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, ensuring transparent access to its operations and finances. Stakeholders await clarity on whether earlier recommendations — like those from the Lodha Committee — will be upheld under the new regime.
The Sports Bill aims to create a professional, inclusive, and athlete-focused sports ecosystem, aligning Indian standards with the Olympic and Paralympic Charters. For cricket fans, athletes, and administrators, this signals a new innings that blends tradition with accountability.
